Met-de-bus-of-tram-naar-Werelderfgoed-op-Utrecht-Science-Park

By Bus or Tram to World Heritage at Utrecht Science Park

Science Park Loop, nature, forts, and finishing on the terrace of the Botanical Gardens
Did you know you can travel by bus from Utrecht city center to some of Utrecht’s most beautiful and historic natural areas? Be surprised during the “World Heritage at Utrecht Science Park” audio tour walk. Hop on the bus or tram and discover the Dutch Waterlines at the Science Park, the area around Fort bij Rijnauwen, and the Botanical Gardens (Fort Hoofddijk).

Discover the rich history of the Dutch Waterlines
The walk (6.4 km) starts at Utrecht Science Park and takes about 1.5 hours, but that depends on your pace and what catches your attention along the way. Believe me, you will see a lot, so take your time to really look around. During this walk, you’ll discover the impressive nature surrounding Fort bij Rijnauwen, the largest fort of the New Dutch Waterline, part of UNESCO World Heritage Dutch Waterlines. A tip from me: go through the gate, walk the grounds next to the fort, and meet the beautiful, not always friendly, free-roaming sheep.

Let an audio tour guide you and learn more about the area
Using the “Utrecht Time Machine” app where you can find the audio route, you dive into the area’s past during the walk. You pass the forbidden circles, the anti-tank canal, fields with sheep, and the unique nature around Fort bij Rijnauwen. Listen to the story about William I and learn more about the role he played in constructing and financing the waterlines. You can listen to the World Heritage at Utrecht Science Park audio tour on your phone without downloading anything. Handy too!

The colorful oasis and terrace of the Botanical Gardens
The route ends at the Botanical Gardens at Fort Hoofddijk. They are beautiful in summer! I was enchanted by the lush greenery, vibrant colors, impressive gardens, herbs, and much more. I also relaxed on a bench watching birds cooling off in the water. The Botanical Gardens also have evening openings, events, and you can buy plants and flowers for your garden or balcony. After a drink on the terrace overlooking the green oasis, you hop back on the bus home.

Accessibility
Getting there is easy with both buses and trams from U-OV. You get off at the Heidelberglaan stop and walk a few minutes to the walk's start at Budapestlaan 17, Utrecht. The easiest way to plan your route is via u-ov.nl/en/reisplanner.

Practical information
Utrecht Timemachine audio tour: https://utrechttimemachine.nl/routes/werelderfgoed-op-utrecht-science-park